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EVERTON FC: STUBBSY BACKS BLUES

/noticias.info/ Former Blue Alan Stubbs has backed Everton to battle to the death for a fourth place finish.

His new club, Derby County, visit Goodison on Sunday and he is in no doubt how important the contest is for his former teammates.

He said: "It’s a big game on Sunday, particularly after the disappointment of losing at Anfield last week. Everyone will be looking for them to get back on track right away.

"There is no doubt there has been a bit of a blip and injuries have played a part but I know there is no way the lads in that dressing room, or the manager, will let the season fizzle out or down tools. It just won’t happen.

"It was a big ask for Everton to finish fourth this season but, until it is a mathematical impossibility, the players will keep going, I’m sure of that.

"They have come too far this season to throw it away. They have made huge strides."

Stubbs, who has been talking exclusively to the Official Matchday Programme for Sunday's game, left Everton in January to link-up with Paul Jewell at this weekend’s opponents Derby County.

He remains philosophical about the move.

He told Sunday’s edition of efc: “It was going to come to an end for me sooner or later. This season that has happened. Three very adaptable players have taken on my position.

“In that department we’re very strong now. That’s great. I’ve been privileged to be a fan and a player. Now I’m back to being a fan.”

Despite moving on in his career, the 36-year-old is delighted to have been involved in Everton’s resurgence over the last few years.

“I’m actually very proud of what I did when I was at Everton,” continued the Kirkby-born defender.

“When I look back on my career when it’s all over, I’ve had quite a few high points and Everton will be up there with the best of them. I had a fantastic time there and met some great lads, playing with some great players, and I was part of some good years.

“I’d like to think I’ve helped the club build a platform. I honestly believe that Everton are a top six team now whereas nine, ten years ago, they were battling relegation. The club have moved on now and the next challenge is to become a top four team. The fact that they are up there now will attract the better players.”

Stubbs is now fully focused on regrouping with his current club and being a key part of a successful Championship campaign next season.

“I’m actually looking forward to next season now,” he declared. “We want to put the performances in during the last six games and try to get to the 16–point mark (Sunderland were relegated with 15 two years ago), which I think the club can do.

“I’ll be 37 in October and I am still playing at a really good level. I’ve got the challenge of trying to get the club promoted straight away and if that did happen, it would be a nice way to call it a day.”

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